For the first time since the International Space Station began operations, NASA ended a mission ahead of schedule because of a medical emergency and safely returned four astronauts to Earth. The situation unfolded after one crew member experienced a serious health issue on January 7.

Washington, Jan. 15: In an unprecedented move in the 25-year history of the International Space Station (ISS), NASA decided to cut short the Crew-11 mission following a medical concern involving an astronaut. As a precaution, all four crew members were brought back to Earth without incident.

The returning astronauts included NASA representatives Jena Cardman and Mike Finke, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency astronaut Kimiya Yui, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Oleg Platonov. The team had reached the ISS in August aboard the SpaceX Dragon Endeavour spacecraft.

Originally scheduled to remain in orbit until March 2026, the mission concluded about a month earlier than planned. A spacewalk set for January 8 was called off after the medical issue was identified the previous day. NASA has not disclosed the identity of the affected astronaut or the nature of the condition, citing privacy. Officials confirmed the individual is stable and undergoing further medical evaluations.

Although the situation did not require an immediate emergency evacuation, NASA opted to end the mission early and return the entire crew using a single capsule. The SpaceX Dragon Endeavour safely splashed down in the Pacific Ocean off the California coast during the early hours of Thursday, January 15.

NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman confirmed that all astronauts are safe and in good spirits. He noted that they are currently receiving routine medical examinations at a hospital in San Diego. This marks the first medical-related early return in the ISS program’s long operational history.

Meanwhile, remaining astronauts aboard the ISS continue with ongoing scientific work. NASA has confirmed that the next crewed mission is scheduled for launch in mid-February. The event highlights the strong coordination between NASA and SpaceX and their ability to respond effectively to medical emergencies in space.